This years outstanding alumnus speaker is Mark Dodge. A 2005 FRC graduate, Dodge had already served four years in the Army before beginning his studies at the community college. As part of his military experience, he served at the Pentagon on 9/11 where he was assigned to search and recovery duties. At FRC he played football before going on to Texas A&M where he became the captain of his football team. He is now project executive for Zachry Industrial, Inc., in Texas. Jessyca Klotz wowed the audience with the national anthem. Klotz graduated with an associates degree in licensed vocational nursing. Many who graduated with a LVN go on to become registered nurses. Perhaps 3-year-old Jude Housel is waiting his turn to wear a cap and gown. Hes shown with his mother Haley Nichole Housel, who received her associates in history. Seated next to her is Bethany Ellen Hammons who received degrees in liberal arts: social and behavioral sciences and sociology. A member of Phi Theta Kappa, Hammons also served as the student representative to the FRC board of trustees. Summer Vercruyssen and Jordan Whitchurch were this years choice for making the student address to fellow graduates and the audience. While Vercruyssen is from Durham and received an associates degree in business administration; Whitchurch came all the way from Australia to receive his associates degree in studio arts. Vercruyssen played volleyball and Whitchurch played soccer. Summer R. Williams, left, and Jessica C. Martinez await the processional and this years guest speakers. Both Williams and Martinez received degrees in general studies: social and behavioral sciences. Madison Argia Berry shakes hands with Trustee Guy McNett, while Trustee John Sheehan waits to give her a diploma. FRC President Kevin Trutna, far right, awaits the next graduate. Berry received an associates in university studies-agriculture. Of course Berry couldnt do graduation without her faithful friend. Alice Mary Thurber is delighted to shake hands with Trustee Dr. Dana Ware as shes about to receive her diploma from Trustee James Meyers. Thurber, an active member of Phi Theta Kappa, credited her involvement in that program for building her drive and determination to succeed. Thurber received an associates in early childhood education and a certificate: early childhood education. Anthony Lewis James Smith gives FRC President Kevin Trutna a big hug at his turn to receive his diploma. Smith received an associates degree in general studies: social and behavioral sciences. Seated and giving Smith a round of applause are, from left, Chief Instructional Officer Derek Lerch, Chief Student Services Officer Carlie McCarthy, faculty member and speaker Michael Bagley, Director of Athletic Operations Merle Trueblood and 2017 Outstanding Alumnus Award recipient and commencement address speaker Mark Dodge. Another local, Kealey Elizabeth Froggatt, shakes hands with Trustee Guy McNett before receiving her diploma from trustee and board President John Sheehan. Froggatt received her associates in general studies: social and behavioral sciences. She is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa. Kai Nicolaas Tjalsma was one of the locals to receive a degree at FRC. He graduated with a degree in political science and was one of the youngest to graduate in this years class.

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FRC Class of 2017 - Plumas County Newspapers